Social Isolation and Loneliness Among Older Asian Immigrants Through the Lens of Sense of Coherence: Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies

ABSTRACT

Aim

To explore the meaning older Asian immigrants attribute to social isolation and loneliness, their management strategies, utilisation of resources and impact on health.

Design

Systematic review of qualitative studies.

Data Sources

AgeLine, CINAHL, MEDLINE, ProQuest, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched in September 2024.

Methods

Inclusion criteria: participants were Asian immigrants to Western countries aged 65 and over, community-living and experiencing social isolation and loneliness. Antonovsky's Sense of Coherence was used to frame the thematic analysis.

Results

Ten papers were included and analysed deductively using elements of the sense of coherence framework: • Comprehensibility: Social isolation and loneliness are viewed as multifaceted, influenced by cultural and environmental dislocation, language barriers, intergenerational conflicts, deteriorating health and mobility, and socioeconomic challenges. • Manageability: included engaging in culture-specific community programs, family and ethnic community support and living within ethnic enclaves mitigated isolation and loneliness. • Meaningfulness: Strong family ties, active community involvement, spirituality, volunteerism, and cultural practices fostered resilience. However, accepting the changing values of their new world, living independently, and carving their own niche provided meaning to their transformed reality.

Conclusion

Older Asian immigrants experience social isolation and loneliness through a cultural lens, shaped by migration experiences, language barriers, and shifting family dynamics. Cultural roots, family ties, spirituality, community, acceptance, and independence enhance sense of coherence. Recognising the dynamic interplay between cultural identity, resilience, and adaptation is key to understanding their lived experience.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

This review informs culturally sensitive interventions, guiding healthcare, community services, and policy to support social participation, mitigate loneliness through ethno-specific activities, and improve the quality of life for aging immigrant populations in Western countries.

Reporting Method

The review was undertaken and reported using the PRISMA guidelines.

Patient or Public Involvement

None.

Protocol Registration

PROSPERO (CRD42023425752)